The monuments of Urartian period in Van and Bitlis and excavations in the region

The Urartu Kingdom is an important civilization prevailed in Eastern Anatolia, Lake Van Basin as its centre, between 9th century BC and 6th century BC. In this study, The Urartu Kingdom who described themselves as Bianians, particularly the significant architectural structures in Lake Van Basin consisting the central of Urartu Kingdom and the antiques found in this region have been discussed. As it is known, Lake Van Basin that Urartu civilization has risen and developed has become an important location where many different nations have settled in since prehistoric ages. Especially the region constituting the basis of the study has encountered an intensive settlement during Early Iron Age. This region has also an importance because of giving us considerable clues about the origins and development of the Urartus and the Proto Urartus. Although the region is quite important, scientifically it is still a closed book because of inadequate research and archaeological excavations. We have tried to contribute to scientific studies to be carried out in the future through this study. The main impulsion lead us to study on this subject is the possibility of changes in the historical route of the world through the enlightenment of this archaeologically dark region. In order to know the Urartus better, excavation and surface researches have been done for approximately a century. In this study, the written sources and archaeological data have been assessed together and important information about the Urartu Kingdom has been given. In addition, in consideration of these data, the role of Urartus in the development of the world and Anatolian Civilizations is tried to be proved as well. Key Words: Urartular, iron ages, Kazı Çalışmaları, Arkeoloji, Kaleler, waters canal, Göletler.